1999 Ford Focus Zetec review from UK and Ireland

Tinkling noise from the driver's door - fixed under warranty.

Noisy air vent motor - fixed under warranty.

Recall for a replacement oil filler cap.

Recall for a replacement alternator.

Annoying thump from the rear suspension - never been diagnosed.

Annoyingly the gear knob spring holding the gear stick between 3rd and 4th gears in neutral has gone so the gear stick flops around a bit.

Excellent road manners. This car can be pushed as hard as you like. The more you push it the more it responds. Ride can be a bit fidgety at low speed, probably because of the Zetec suspension settings.

Good performance off the mark although the high torque peak of 4,500 rpm means the mid range is not as sprightly as I would like. Gearing a little too long means that motorway drives leave me searching for 4th gear if I drop below 60.

Insurance dirt cheap at group 6.

An average of 31mpg is not brilliant, probably because I drive with gusto.

First set of tyres lasted 24,000 and I'm sure less eager drivers would get 30,000 out of a set.

Excellent ergonomics. I recommend getting the air con and ABS options, otherwise the standard kit is a bit of a let down.